Looking for something fun to do this summer? Check out a few of these ideas from our advertising partners.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis features five floors of educational fun for all ages! Outside, the 7.5-acre Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience encourages movement with interactive exhibits that let visitors play a variety of sports. Visit the museum’s website to learn more.
Phone: (317) 334-4000
Address: 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis
The Eiteljorg Museum
The Eiteljorg Museum has something for everyone. With a captivating collection of art and ever-changing exhibits and events, we know you will fall in love with what the Eiteljorg has to offer.
Phone: (317) 636-9378
Address: 500 West Washington Street, Indianapolis
Cool Creek Summer Concerts
- May 31st: Mike & Joe
- June 14: Turn to Stone
- June 21: The Flying Toasters
- July 12: BroCountry
- July 19: Trippin Billies
- August 2: Der Polkatz 7 P.M.
Phone: (317) 770-4400
Address: Cool Creek Park | 2000 E. 151st St, Carmel
Gen Con
The Best Four Days in Gaming™ returns to the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium August 1-4! From board games to puzzles, arts and crafts, costumes, food trucks, live entertainment, escape rooms, arcade alley, and so much more, the whole family will enjoy a weekend of playful adventure. Browse thousands of free-to-play games in the board game library, try a Pokémon demo, learn to make a puppet, hang out in the Kid Zone, and shop from over 500 exhibitors and explore over 19,000 events. Kids 10 and under get free admission with an adult badge. Be on the lookout for Genevieve, the friendly Gen Con dragon, for a fun photo op and giveaways!
Phone: (206) 385-1967
Address: 100 S. Capitol Ave, Indianapolis
Indiana State Fair
The 2024 Indiana State Fair will be a true Hoosier Masterpiece! Join us to curate & cultivate more memories & traditions as we theme 2024 in a celebration of The Art & Nature of Fun, in partnership with Newfields. Mark your calendars as the 167th Great Indiana State Fair returns August 2-18 (Closed Mondays). More food, more fun, and more memories are made during the Greatest 15 Days of Summer. Down-home artistry. Downright fun.
Phone: (317) 927-7500
Address: 1202 E. 38th Street, Indianapolis
Breakout Games
Looking for a family-friendly adventure this summer? Breakout Games offers thrilling escape rooms for every age to enjoy. Break into a museum, escape from a deserted island, or solve the secrets of a mysterious mansion. You’re guaranteed to have a blast. Book your game today!
Phone: (317) 672-6060
Address: 8455 Castlewood Dr, Ste A, Indianapolis
Murphy Aquatic Park
Make a splash with your family this summer at Murphy Aquatic Park! Dive into summer with swimming, water slides, and the wave pool. Plus, there’s something for everyone with our inclusive playground and ADA-accessible water area. Gates open starting Saturday, May 25th, from 11 am to 6 pm daily. Stay updated on all the fun by following us on Facebook and explore the exciting programs we have planned for this summer!
Phone: (317) 289-9675
Address: 753 S County Rd 625 E, Avon
Nickel Plate Express
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Nickel Plate Express’s railbike rides! Perfect for families, our 4-person railbikes offer a unique way to experience the rails. From May to October, join us for summer fun like no other. Book now – the only place in Indiana offering this thrilling experience!
Phone: (317) 674-3840
Address: 825 Forest Park Dr., Noblesville
Indy Art Center
The Indy Art Center believes that Art Belongs to Everybody. With a huge selection of classes and camps for all ages and levels, there is something for everybody. Check out our 7 galleries and ARTSPARK that are always free and open to the public.
Phone: (317) 255-2464
Address: 820 E 67th St., Indianapolis
Indiana State Museum
Unleash summer adventure at the Indiana State Museum! Plunge into the depths of prehistoric times with our newly reimagined “Ancient Seas” exhibit. As night falls, don’t miss the enchanting “Good Night Forest,” where you can follow the nocturnal journeys of forest animals in an immersive, interactive environment. With three floors of galleries showcasing art, culture, and the evolving story of Indiana—from its early roots to its bright future—every visit offers a new adventure. Create unforgettable family memories this summer, exploring together, learning, and having fun!
Phone: (317) 232-1637
Address: 650 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis
CarmelFest
CarmelFest is a cherished summer event for families and friends across Indiana. Attendees can experience live entertainment, savor delicious festival food, explore the unique marketplace, gather under the spectacular fireworks, and honor the nation’s independence at the patriotic parade. It’s a perfect occasion for creating special memories! July 3 & 4.
Address: Carmel, IN
Fields of Joy
Located just 30 minutes from Indianapolis, Fields of Joy is the perfect destination for flower lovers! Wander the 2-acre flower field and cut your own gorgeous bouquet, check the farm stand for fresh produce, and visit the farm animals. Visit our website for more details on flower U-Pick, workshops, and events.
Address: 3840 W. 38th St., Anderson
Newfields
Indianapolis’ 152-acre cultural playground for kids of all ages. Take a hike around the lake in Fairbanks Park, explore The Garden, or get creative inside the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Visit discovernewfields.org for a complete list of classes, camps, workshops, and more.
Phone: (317) 923-1331
Address: 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis
City of Westfield
Are you looking for fun and free community events? Make sure to visit westfieldwelcome.com to see everything we offer. From Movies in the Plaza to Creek Stomps, kids activities and free festivals, there’s something for everyone!
Address: 2728 E. 171st Street, Westfield
Seize the Summer with Fishers Parks
Enjoy a full slate of summer fun with Fishers Parks with return favorites like Glow in the Park, Monsoon Madness, free concerts at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, farm life at the Fishers Agripark, fresh and local food at the Fishers Farmers Market, and so much more. Each moment this summer is an opportunity to celebrate, explore, and connect in Fishers. From parks and trail adventures to the thrills of community events, every day is a chance to seize something spectacular.
Phone: (317) 595-3150
Address: 8100 E. 106th Street, Suite 150, Fishers
The Indianapolis Zoo
Located along the scenic White River, the Indianapolis Zoo is the perfect place to have Wildly Inspiring moments. Come face-to-face with a sloth, watch bewitchingly beautiful macaws soar, and discover wildlife from all corners of the globe. Prepare for an experience that is indisputably unforgettable.
Phone: (317) 630-2001
Address: 1200 West Washington St., Indianapolis
Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s Coxhall Gardens Summer Concert Series
Come join us for a delightful evening at Coxhall Gardens as the Carmel Symphony Orchestra performs a beautiful blend of summer music on Friday, June 21st. The Centerpiece Amphitheater provides an exceptional venue for creating memories for your family, friends, or associates. The beauty of Coxhall Gardens is a gem of Hamilton County, just south of the Village of West Clay in Carmel. In Partnership with Artomobilia and Hamilton County Parks & Recreation.
Phone: (317) 844-9717
Address: 760 3rd Ave SW, Ste. 102, Carmel
Indy Parks
Indy Parks and Recreation provides parks, greenspaces, trails, and recreation opportunities for Marion County residents and visitors. The agency offers 214 parks, 11,608 acres of greenspace, 130 playgrounds, 155 sports fields, 153 miles of trails, 23 recreation and nature centers, 20 aquatic centers, 22 spray grounds, 13 golf courses, and four dog parks. Indy Parks also provides a range of sports, art, education, and recreation programs and more than 2,400 programs throughout the year.
Phone: (317) 327-7275
Address: Multiple Locations
Conner Prairie
Discover something new this summer at Conner Prairie! Travel back to the 1800s where history comes to life and a new friend awaits you around every corner. Immerse yourself in nature as you climb a 4-story treehouse, then soar hundreds of feet in the air in our balloon voyage experience.
Phone: (317) 776-6000
Address: 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers
Wright’s Gymnastics & NinjaZone
Turn your Summer… Upside down! With our many Wright’s Gymnastics & NinjaZone facilities located throughout the greater Indianapolis area, one is sure to be convenient for you!
Phone: (317) 888-4805
Address: Multiple Locations
YMCA of Greater Indianapolis
The YMCA is about families, but we’re also about singles, college students, new couples, and empty-nesters. Above all, we’re about community. From swimming to group exercise, to youth and adult sports, to personal training, to book and garden clubs, our programs build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
Phone: (317) 266-9622
Address: 12 Greater Indianapolis Locations to Serve You
NFL Flag Football
The 7-practice/6-game season held on Sundays is a 5 vs. 5, non-contact, recreational, co-ed format. We try to limit teams to 10-11 players to maximize playing time. This is an exceptional program for first-time players who want to learn the fundamentals of football. This is also a wonderful opportunity for players who want to continue enhancing their skills before taking the next leap into tackle football. There are no try-outs! Everyone participates!
Phone: (317) 759-2691
Center for Young Children
The Center for Young Children (CYC), located on the campus of IU Indianapolis in downtown Indianapolis, provides childcare and early childhood education for the University and Indianapolis communities. We offer year-round programs for children ages 6 weeks – 5 years. In addition, we are licensed to accept CCDF and On-My-Way Pre-K program vouchers. We believe children learn through play, hands-on activities, experiences, and interaction with their environment. At CYC, we provide a setting in which children can wonder, solve, learn, and grow, and we strive to amplify the potential of all children within our care through the guidance and encouragement of experienced and professional teachers. If you would like to visit the Center for Young Children, you can schedule an appointment by directly contacting us.
Phone: (317) 274-3508
Address: 321 Limestone Street, Indianapolis
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
Get ready to fill your summer with sound as the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra kicks off the 2024 Kroger Symphony on the Prairie season at Conner Prairie! Don’t miss your Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra as they perform the music of Queen, Led Zeppelin, a weekend of disco hits, the best of John Williams, and the exciting Star-Spangled Symphony celebration. Buy tickets online at IndianapolisSymphony.org or in person at the box office and select central Indiana Kroger stores. Pack your picnics, gather your friends, and we’ll see you at the Prairie this summer!
Phone: (317) 639-4300
Address: 45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis
Hamilton County 4-H Fair
The Hamilton County 4-H Fair returns July 18-22, 2024, at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds in Noblesville. The 4-H Fair is free to the public and sponsored by the Hamilton County 4-H Council, Inc. Families can enjoy great food, interact with animals, and enjoy hands-on activities and events open for public participation. Admission and parking are free for this family-friendly event. Come join the fun!
Address: 2003 Pleasant St, Noblesville
Stage I Dance Academy
Summer Fun Alert! Ready to twirl, tumble, and dance your way through summer? Dive into our exciting lineup of dance camps, classes, and tumbling sessions for ages 15 months-adults! Mention this ad for 10% off your summer tuition when you register today!
Phone: (317) 881-2021
Address: 740 Fry Rd. Suite D, Greenwood
Girl Scouts of Central Indiana Summer Camp
Girl Scouts of Central Indiana has five unique camps, each situated on beautiful sprawling acres, and each with their own special touch. Explore our camp page to learn about each one! Activities vary by camp program/event/location and may include swimming, biking, hiking, jumping on the giant trampoline, horse or pedal car riding, arts and crafts, STEM exploration, cooking over a campfire, singing Girl Scout songs, and of course making new friends and keeping the old. It’s definitely more fun than you’d ever expect for such a great price!
Phone: (317) 924-6800
Address: 7201 Girl Scout Ln., Indianapolis
Carmel Swim Academy
Dive into summer with swim lessons at Carmel Swim Academy! We put safety first, alongside excellence, in our engaging and fun learn-to-swim programs for all ages starting at 6+ months. We welcome the entire community to have a better and friendlier experience with water at our new facility!
Phone: (317) 575-8244
Address: 830 City Center Drive, Carmel
Visit Fort Wayne
Located just two hours north of Indianapolis, Fort Wayne is a city that has it all! Fill your next family adventure with outdoorsy exploration along 8 miles of riverfront in downtown Fort Wayne, the vibrancy of Fort Wayne’s art scene, and discover your wild side at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo.
Phone: (260) 424-3700
Address: 927 South Harrison Street, Fort Wayne
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
Since 1945, Handel’s award-winning homemade ice cream is made fresh daily on the premises. We use products, equipment, methods, and recipes exclusive only to Handel’s. Our philosophy is to use the best ingredients available and always in abundance.
Locations:
- Carmel: 2466 E. 146th St. | (317) 705-1855
- Fishers: 8760 E. 116th St. | (317) 585-8065
- Noblesville: 14165 Cabela Parkway | (317) 343-9857
- Greenwood: 902 N State Rd. 135 | (317) 559-3552
Titus Bakery and Deli
Products made the old-fashioned way! Originating in the 1950s, Lebanon, Indiana business, Titus Bakery and Deli is a third-generation, family-owned business that has earned a reputation for providing some of the finest donuts and pastries in the State. The recipes and processes developed over this time provide today’s customers with not only consistent quality, but a tantalizingly wide selection of tasty treats. Today, Titus Bakery has three locations: Lebanon, Westfield, and inside Reynolds Farm Equipment located in Atlanta, IN. In addition to offering award-winning donuts, sandwiches, cakes, cookies, and coffee drinks are offered. Our Westfield Bakery offers Children’s Birthday Parties in a private room.
Phone: (765) 482-1740
Address: 820 W. South Street, Lebanon
Squire Boone Caverns
Tours of this natural wonder attraction lead explorers past thousands of dazzling, living formations, underground streams, and rushing waterfalls. Now you can book online to explore the caverns first discovered by brothers Squire and Daniel Boone. Mine for gemstones and see a working gristmill while you’re here!
Phone: (812) 732-4381
Address: 100 Squire Boone Rd., Mauckport
Warren County – Ohio’s Largest Playground
In the steamy Midwest summer, there’s no cooler place to play than Ohio’s Largest Playground – Warren County! Easily drivable and packed with record-crushing coasters, wild water parks, and more warm weather fun, it’s a perfect summer getaway – not far away – for the entire family. Plan your play today!
Phone: (513) 204-1900
Address: 5412 Courseview Drive, Mason
Visit Springfield
Travel Route 66 to Springfield. Home to America’s beloved president, Abraham Lincoln. Relax at local wineries and breweries. Discover vibrant architecture, including Frank Lloyd’s Dana-Thomas House, celebrating 120 years this year. Check out all of the Route 66 attractions from one end of town to the other! Grab your FREE Explorer Passport and make some memories!
Phone: (217) 789-2360
Address: 1 S. Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield
French Lick West Baden Museum
The French Lick West Baden Museum is once again showcasing French Lick West Baden’s cultural heritage with Circus Day taking the center ring to keep the Valley’s amazing circus history alive for future generations. Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 22, as French Lick West Baden Museum presents Circus Day 2024! Circus Day 2024 will be an intimate experience for our guests, providing one-on-one interactions with the skilled performers and their acts, as well as the history of the Circus. Circus Day commemorates the historical significance of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus wintering in West Baden and in memory of the Great Circus Train Wreck of 1918. Circus Day will include circus performers from across the Midwest, face painter, balloon artist, bounce house, dunk tank, food trucks, vendors, historic circus wagons, historic interpreters, and so much more!
Phone: (812) 936-3592
Address: 469 S. Maple St. Suite 103, French Lick
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
Lou Malnati’s is as rich in history as its pizza is in flavor. Every Lou Malnati’s pizza is handmade from scratch using the finest and freshest ingredients. Dine-in at our restaurant in Broad Ripple, featuring a pet-friendly patio, trivia on Monday nights, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Also, visit one of our carry-out/delivery locations listed below. Order at order.loumalnatis.com.
Phone: (708) 743-1176
Dine In: Broad Ripple – 6320 Ferguson St.
Carry Out & Delivery:
- Carmel – 11435 Spring Mill Rd.
- Greenwood – 791 S State Rd 135
- North Indy – 2902 W 86th St.
S & H Campgrounds
Located just 20 minutes from Indianapolis, S&H Campground in Greenfield is the ideal place to spend some quality time together as a family — and some quality time in the great outdoors. The campground offers a variety of camping styles, from primitive plots to set up a tent, to motorhome and cabin rentals, to spots to hook up your RV or camper and settle in. There’s something for every type of camper at S&H Campground.
Phone: (317) 326-3208
Address: 2573 W 100 N., Greenfield
Whitewater Valley Railroad
With regular and special trains running April-December, you’re sure to find the perfect opportunity to visit our railroad with family and friends. Summer excursions include the Valley Flyer, Whitewater Limited, Wild West Special, Civil War Special, and the Labor Day Valley Flyer.
Phone: (765) 825-2054
Address: 455 Market St., Connersville
Bulldog Park
Spend the summer at Bulldog Park, an award-winning entertainment facility located two blocks from downtown Crown Point. Bulldog Park is your go-to venue for events year-round. Join us for a weekly farmers market, weekly car cruise, free festivals, summer concerts, and more! For a calendar of events, visit www.crownpoint.in.gov.
Phone: (219) 661-2271
Address: 183 S. West St., Crown Point
Black Pine Animal Sanctuary
Nestled on 18 acres in Northern Indiana Lake Country, Black Pine Animal Sanctuary is the forever home to over 80 captive-raised exotic and wild animals. Black Pine is the only Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries accredited multi-species sanctuary in the Midwest. During the season, May – October, guests can experience the sanctuary and hear the stories through staff-guided tours. Tours are available for all ages and levels of interest. Our mission is to provide “REFUGE for the REST of their lives.”
Phone: (260) 636-7383
Address: 1426 W 300 N., Albion
LiftOff Creamery
LiftOff Creamery is an aviation-themed ice cream and gourmet dessert shop located just minutes away from downtown Indianapolis, Indiana.
Phone: (317) 426-2641
Address: 111 E 16th Street, Ste 105, Indianapolis
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